MEXICO. Falsa Época. Sub-Standard Purity Contemporary Counterfeit 4 Escudos, 1818-Mo JJ. Uncertain Local Mint "Mexico City", Assayer JJ. Ferdinand VII. EXTREMELY FINE DETAILS.
13.39 gms. cf.Cal-Type 36 (for basic type); cf.KM-146 (for basic type). Contemporary counterfeit 4 Escudos struck in imitation of a 1818-Mo JJ Mexico 4 Escudos of Ferdinand VII. The legends are Obverse: "FERDIN.VII.D.G. HISP.ET IND.R .1818."; Reverse: "IN.UTROQ.FELIX..AUSPICE.DEO Mo..JJ.". A very unusual denomination struck with decent style, though crude, in very similar fashion to what Mexican branch mint products looked like during the War for Independence. The legends, though technically correct, are very crude and of rudimentary skill level of engraving. Evidence of being cleaned long ago with light wispy lines from being wiped now somewhat subdued with a nice skin. Overall a handsome example with a good look and attractive old patina. The high points display a pale gold color while the open fields exhibit a golden-honey tone with areas of sunset hues in the protected areas. A very neat issue sure to pique the interest of many collectors, a real treat for the specialist looking to expand their collection. A highly unusual denomination to find as a contemporary counterfeit, where most survivors encountered are those of 8, 2, 1 and 1/2 Escudos. The 4 Escudos along with their silver counterpart, 4 Reales, were not really produced in large quantities. These denominations were primarily intended for local use not intended to circulate to far outside the immediate vicinity.
From the John Kraljevich Collection of Contemporary Circulating Forgeries.
Estimate: $1000.00- $1500.00